Knik Polar Dip

Knik Polar Dip — Helicopter Access to Glacier Melt Pools

Ready to turn Alaska’s winter into your personal legend? This heart-pounding adventure pairs a scenic helicopter flight with a guided landing on the Knik Glacier—and a bracing plunge into its crystal-blue melt pools. Fly above the Chugach Mountains, touch down on ancient ice, then take the Polar Dip surrounded by towering seracs and sweeping wilderness. Warm up with hot drinks and cozy gear before your return flight, carrying home the story you’ll tell forever.

Rates

• $599 — Adults (Ages 18+)
• Age: 18–99
• Gratuities: Guests typically tip pilots/guides 5–10% (optional, appreciated).

Duration

• Total time: ~1.5 hours
• Flight segments: Scenic helicopter transfers to/from the glacier
• On-ice time: Guided glacier landing and Polar Dip experience

About the Experience

Depart from Alaska Glacier Lodge and lift over braided rivers, rugged peaks, and shimmering ice toward the Knik Glacier. After a safety briefing, your pilot guides you onto a remote ice field where cobalt melt pools dot the surface. Here, with professional guidance and support, you’ll take the Polar Plunge—a thrilling, invigorating dip in pristine glacial water. Post-plunge, warm up with hot beverages and layered gear while you soak in surreal views before flying back across the valley.

• Helicopter access to a remote glacier landing
• Polar Dip in naturally formed glacial pools
• Hot drinks & warm-up gear provided after the plunge
• Unparalleled photo opportunities across ice fields and mountain panoramas

Highlights / Why Choose This Tour

• Once-in-a-lifetime bucket-list moment: swim in glacier meltwater on an active ice field
• Helicopter convenience: fast, scenic access to otherwise unreachable terrain
• Guided, small-group experience: safety-first approach with expert pilot narration
• Iconic Alaska views: Chugach peaks, Knik Glacier, and luminous blue pools
• Brag-worthy memories: incredible visuals for photos and video

Good to Know / Additional Info

• Meeting point: Alaska Glacier Lodge, 29979 East Knik River Road, Palmer, AK 99645 (check in 45 minutes before departure).
• What’s included: helicopter flights, guided glacier landing, Polar Dip setup, hot beverages, warm-up gear.
• What to bring: a full change of clothes for after the dip, base layers, warm socks, hat, gloves, and a towel; wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear with traction.
• Health & restrictions: Not recommended for guests with significant cardiac or other major health concerns; consult your physician if unsure.
• Aircraft & weights: Robinson R44s seat up to 3 passengers; per-seat limit 300 lbs, combined passenger limit 600 lbs. Parties exceeding these limits or groups larger than 3 may fly in 2–3 helicopters and reunite on the glacier (bonus: window seats for all). Guests 250 lbs+ pay a $150 comfort surcharge to block an additional seat. Guests 300 lbs+ must call to arrange a larger AStar helicopter.
• Seating & private flights: Due to weight/balance, seating and helicopter assignments are confirmed at check-in. A Private Flight guarantees your party in the same aircraft.
• Prohibited items: bear spray, lighters, battery packs, loaded firearms, loose straps; no backpacks/bags onboard (use pockets; water bottles may be held or stowed under seat).
• Safety & visibility: Weather can change rapidly; routes or landing locations may be adjusted at the pilot’s discretion for safety. Sightings cannot be guaranteed and FAA temporary restrictions may apply.

Cancellations

• Payment timeline: Full payment is due 72 hours prior to departure. If you use the deposit feature within 72 hours of your tour, the remaining balance will be charged automatically.
• Booked directly with Alaska Helicopter Tours:
  • 72+ hours before departure: Full refund.
  • Within 72 hours: Non-refundable; may be rescheduled for a fee when possible.
  • No-shows / late arrivals: Payments are forfeited unless Trip Protection was purchased.
  • Operator cancellations (weather/safety): 100% refund.
• Rescheduling: Same-day changes cannot always be accommodated. A $200 rescheduling fee applies within 72 hours unless Trip Protection applies.
• How to cancel: Email all requests to reservations@alaskahelicoptertours.com.
• Booked through another agency: Please cancel directly with your agency and follow their policy.
• Protection & insurance: Trip Protection / travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Cold, bold, and absolutely unforgettable—this is Alaska at full volume. Book your Knik Polar Dip today and take the plunge into a story you’ll relive for years.